The vast expanse of Lake Windermere shown from above the village of Ambleside in the British Lake District.

Walking Holidays & Outdoor Adventures in Ambleside

Fell circuits, lake shorelines, and a lively town at the heart of the Lakes

Where valley paths meet classic ridges — and every route ends with a cosy pub.

Ambleside is one of the Lake District’s best bases for walking holidays and outdoor adventures. Set at the head of Windermere with quick access to Rydal, Grasmere, and Langdale, it puts clifftop-like ridges, lakeside strolls, and family-friendly fell tops within easy reach. From town you can wander to Stock Ghyll Force, climb Wansfell Pike, loop over Loughrigg Fell, or step onto big classics like the Fairfield Horseshoe. The Cumbria Way runs close by via Elterwater and Great Langdale, making multi-day itineraries simple to stitch together.

Between walks, Ambleside’s cafés, outdoor shops, and independent eateries keep the energy high — perfect for relaxed evenings after a day on the fells.

Why Walk Here

Routes from the door: lakeside paths, waterfalls, low fells, and full ridge days.
Access to classics: Fairfield Horseshoe, Wansfell Pike, Loughrigg Fell, and the Coffin Route to Grasmere.
Near the Cumbria Way with links into Langdale and beyond.
Ideal for varied abilities — from family-friendly loops to big mountain circuits.
Vibrant town base with cafés, pubs, outdoor retailers, and galleries.

Nearby Trails

Fairfield Horseshoe (from Ambleside/Rydal) – Iconic high-level circuit with sustained ridge views.
Wansfell Pike – Short, steep climb to a superb Windermere panorama.
Loughrigg Fell & Rydal Caves – Undulating fell circuit with terrace views and a photogenic cave.
Ambleside to Grasmere via the Coffin Route – Historic balcony path linking villages through Rydal.
Loughrigg Terrace to Elterwater – Scenic link toward Langdale and the Cumbria Way corridor.
Windermere Lakeshore Paths – Gentle waterside walking from nearby Waterhead.

Outdoor Adventures and Activities

Paddleboarding, kayaking, or boat trips on Windermere (Waterhead).
Trail running over Loughrigg, Wansfell, and the Rydal/Grasmere loops.
Gravel and road cycling through the Rothay and Brathay valleys.
Waterfall and woodland photography at Stock Ghyll Force and Rydal Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I start a self-guided walking holiday from Ambleside?

Yes — Ambleside is perfectly placed for multi-day itineraries, with classic circuits on the doorstep and easy links to Grasmere, Langdale, and the Cumbria Way corridor.

Where should walkers stay in Ambleside?

You’ll find walker-friendly hotels, inns with rooms, guesthouses, and self-catering bases within a short stroll of trailheads. Many offer early breakfasts, drying rooms, and kit storage.

Do local businesses offer guided experiences?

Yes — expect guided fell days, navigation coaching, scrambling introductions, and paddlesports sessions on Windermere from local operators.

Is Ambleside good for a car-free walking holiday?

Definitely — frequent buses connect Ambleside with Grasmere, Langdale, Windermere, and Keswick. Many routes start right in town; lake cruises add flexible returns.

What’s a great first-day or rest-day walk?

Try Loughrigg Fell for varied terrain and big views, the Coffin Route to Grasmere for a gentler balcony path, or Wansfell Pike for a quick summit hit.